What Is an EORI Number?
An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) is a unique customs identifier issued by Irish Revenue. It is required for every business or individual that imports or exports goods to or from Ireland.
Without an EORI, your shipment cannot be cleared by Revenue and your goods will be held at the port.
Irish EORI Format
An Irish EORI number takes the format IE followed by your VAT number, e.g. IE1234567X. If you are not VAT-registered, Revenue will issue you a customs-only EORI number.
Step 1 — Decide What Type of EORI You Need
- VAT-registered business — your EORI is auto-derived from your VAT number once you activate customs on ROS.
- Non-VAT-registered business or sole trader — apply for a customs-only EORI through ROS.
- Individual importing personal goods — same as above, apply through ROS using your PPS number.
Step 2 — Register for ROS (Revenue Online Service)
If you do not already use ROS, you must register first:
- Go to revenue.ie and select "Register for ROS".
- Choose business or individual.
- Verify your identity and download your ROS digital certificate.
This step typically takes 3-5 working days because Revenue posts an activation code.
Step 3 — Apply for EORI Through ROS
Once you have ROS access:
- Log into ROS.
- Go to "My Services" → "Manage Tax Registrations" → "Customs and Excise".
- Apply to activate EORI / Customs.
- Submit the application.
Most EORI numbers are issued within 1-3 working days once the ROS application is submitted.
Step 4 — Verify Your EORI
You can verify any EU EORI number, including your own, on the European Commission's EORI validation portal at ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/eos/eori_validation.jsp.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying too late. EORI takes a few days — do not wait until your goods are en route.
- Using a GB EORI in Ireland. GB EORIs (issued by HMRC) are not valid for Irish imports. You need a separate IE EORI even if you also trade in the UK.
- Mixing personal and business activity. If you use a business EORI for personal goods, Revenue may query the declaration.
How We Help
We complete EORI applications on behalf of clients every week and chase Revenue if there are delays. Get in touch and we will have your EORI active in days.